Hunt will leave the Suns at the end of the 2014 season amid speculation the will be heading to Super Rugby side Queensland Reds.|
Karmichael Hunt has confirmed his decision to leave the Gold Coast Suns at the end of the 2014 AFL season amid speculation he will cross-codes yet again and sign a deal with Super Rugby side Queensland Reds.
Hunt, previously a star in the NRL with the Brisbane Broncos, was a foundation player at the Suns and will leave the club after Sunday’s clash with the West Coast Eagles at Metricon Stadium.
If selected, it would be Hunt’s 45th AFL game.
Despite the speculation surrounding a move to the Reds, Hunt gave no indication of his future sporting plans and thanked the Suns for his four years at the club.
“I will be forever grateful to the AFL and Gold Coast Suns for giving me such an amazing opportunity. I’ve enjoyed every aspect of it and the game and the Suns will always be part of mine and my family’s life,” Hunt said in a club statement.
“There are far too many people to thank for helping me to achieve what I have been able to do in the game, but to the coaches and support staff, my team-mates and our ever-growing fan base, I thank you for your direction, guidance and importantly your support.
“It has been an amazing challenge and an incredibly fulfilling one, and I wish the Gold Coast Suns all the very best in the future.”
Gold Coast chief executive Trevor Auld said Hunt played a vital role in the club finding its feet in the Queensland sporting landscape.
“Karmichael Hunt’s role in establishing us as an AFL club will never be underestimated by those close to our football club,” Auld said.
“Karmichael has delivered far more the we could have ever hoped for when we signed him in 2009 and with his assistance and dedication, the Gold Coast Suns have found a place in the hearts and minds of many Queenslanders.”
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